Law Firm Urges Additional Survivors of Former Sanger Police Officer's Sexual Abuse to Come Forward

The Wagner Law Group is urging individuals who were sexually abused, assaulted, manipulated, or coerced by former Sanger Police Department officer J.D. Torrence to contact the firm's confidential Abuse Victim Hotline at (833)-200-7111. The firm, which is currently representing multiple survivors, recently helped a victim receive a $5.25 million settlement. "If you were harmed by J.D. Torrence in any way, you may have significant legal rights — and delaying action could jeopardize your ability to pursue compensation," says Butch Wagner. Survivors are encouraged to call to speak confidentially with an experienced sex abuse attorney who understands the trauma and legal complexities surrounding sexual abuse committed by law enforcement officers.

J.D. Torrence used the authority of his police badge to exploit and victimize individuals during official interactions. His position allowed him to detain, question, intimidate, and isolate members of the public — authority that prosecutors later proved he abused for sexual purposes. Although Torrence has been criminally convicted and sentenced to life in prison, a criminal sentence does not provide financial compensation to every person harmed. The Wagner Law Group has recently secured a $5.25 million settlement for a survivor, but there may be additional survivors who have not yet come forward. Sexual abuse committed by a police officer creates a severe imbalance of power. Many survivors remain silent due to fear of retaliation, embarrassment, community pressure, or the belief that no one will believe them. Others were threatened directly or manipulated into silence. For some, the trauma has lasted for years without accountability.

The Wagner Law Group is making it clear that survivors still have options. Civil lawsuits allow victims to pursue financial compensation and demand accountability not only from the perpetrator but also from institutions that may have failed to prevent or address misconduct. The firm has already secured substantial recovery connected to misconduct involving Torrence, but that case represents only one survivor's claim. Other individuals may have independent rights that deserve legal review. If Torrence used his authority as a Sanger police officer during a traffic stop, investigation, questioning, detention, or any other official encounter — and that interaction turned sexual, coercive, threatening, or abusive — individuals should immediately contact the Abuse Victim Hotline at (833)-200-7111.

California law has expanded legal protections for survivors of sexual abuse, including extended filing windows in certain circumstances. Even if the incident occurred years ago, survivors should not assume their claim is barred. Legal deadlines depend on specific facts, and every survivor's situation deserves individual evaluation. Consultations with injury lawyers at The Wagner Law Group are free and confidential. Calling does not obligate individuals to file a lawsuit. Their identity can be protected to the fullest extent allowed by law. The purpose of the call is to inform survivors of their rights and explain their legal options. Sexual abuse carried out under color of law is not a minor violation — it is a profound abuse of power. Survivors may be entitled to compensation for emotional distress, psychological trauma, therapy expenses, medical care, lost wages, and long-term harm. Financial recovery cannot undo what happened, but it can provide accountability and resources for healing.